Week in Reflection

​Class of 2018: Parting Wisdom From Your Principal

During the last year or so, after your parents first realized that the rest of your life had inexplicably sped past, they tried not to be obvious. But maybe you noticed. In spite of all that you were going through in school, sports, and even at work, your family tried to slow the calendar, stop the clock. They were trying, of course, to hang on to you.The very thing that they committed to year’s ago- rearing, raising, training you for independence- your parents now began to fear. I’m sure some may have been emotional; they may have been firm, or even built walls between you. Every sign that indicated you had learned and matured and were ready to face the world only reminded them how young you seemed.But your parents couldn’t run from the truth. You were leaving and the day was coming soon. Some of your parents may have been so desperate to hang on that they couldn’t even exult in your growth and progress. Why, you ask, a lot of it was due to your maddening independence, that I-can-do-it-myself attitude that reminded both of them so much of their own adolescence, or even that look that asked, “Why do you have to know everything?” or “What does it matter to you?” may have cemented in their aching heart the truth: You had become your own person.It’s what they had wanted. But, your time together this year went by too quickly. There may have been days when they didn’t want it at all. Yet, throughout all the fights over applications, and deadlines, your parents knew that this was for the best. It’s time. And maybe from their perspective, there will never be a good time. Your parents have realized that the longer they hang on to you, the more they protect you from the real world. If you don’t jump in, you’ll never find yourself. And so they must nudge you from the nest.Seeing you leave for college or your career may remind them of the first time they let you go in the water. Only this time they are not going to be at arm’s length, ready to grab as you panic. They will not stand by with reassuring words that say, “I’m just seeing if you can float alone.” For this is the real thing. Your parents will let you go; you will be on your own, and they will back away.The other metaphor that may come to mind is your first time on two wheels. Mom or dad ran along beside, reaching, adjusting, holding the seat, helping you gain momentum and speed. Soon you were on your wobbly way, unable to turn, riding through puddles, over curbs, slowing to painful, tumbling stops before leaping up to try again.Now they will give your two-wheeler one last shove and watch. No more running alongside. You had enough of that. You won’t admit it, but there will be times when you whirl around expecting your parents to be there. They won't be, and you will think twice about calling, about asking to be bailed out of a jam.There will be bumps and bruises and as much as they would like to protect you from them, your parents will walk away to see you grow. You may be swindled, maybe even endangered because of your own innocence. Your parents could intervene, could warn you, or could slow you on a headlong path to believing someone because “he seemed like a great guy, or she seemed like a great girl.” They could urge you to let time be the test of relationships, to think twice, even three times, before investing in anything. But you must learn from your own mistakes.Your parents and teachers know because they have been there. We all have gone against our own better judgment, so why shouldn’t you? Even I knew better, or should have. I have been told enough times by my own parents. But some things you must learn on your own. You may fail, and you will kick yourself and wonder why you forged ahead. There will come a time that you will know that your life was shaped by the lessons you could learn only from your own mistakes.Graduates of 2018, I am at an age, where I finally can realize the wisdom, encouragement, and love that a parent gives to a child. As a parent of two beautiful daughters--the love shared between parents to their children is never a superficial root that may drive you away from their love, but a permanent foundation that grants you the opportunity to blossom into an adult. You must realize that as you transition into a new chapter of your life, your parents, brothers, sisters, and even your friends are going through the same transition. I know that your parents are so proud of you. Even through the good and bad times of this year, you have grown in such a way that radiates the beauty of every one of you.

Graduates, look around. You are so gifted and talented. Your class emulates success. Academically, athletically, socially, and within the community, Your parents, and teachers have watched you grow daily and we are so proud to honor you today in your accomplishments. Many people state that you are the future. You are more than that. You Are The Strength Of Today.

Forever in my heart, Mr. Murray

​Senior Events

Senior Guidelines

Because we expect proper behavior from our students at all times, seniors should remember that they are subject to the same rules and regulations as any other students while they are present on school property or participating in any school-sponsored activity. It is important for seniors to understand that in order to discourage practical jokes of any kind; typical senior pranks will result in disciplinary intervention from the administration. Should this occur it would mean that the individual(s) involved may not be eligible to participate in graduation exercises. After 13 years of hard work (K-12), this would be a very grave consequence for the student, the parents, and the school. Our goal and objective is to see each senior walk across our stage at commencement and receive his/her high school diploma with dignity and pride.

Graduation Rehearsal

Because commencement exercises are conducted in a formal, ceremonial fashion, it is mandatory that all seniors be in attendance for rehearsal. *Seniors who do not attend rehearsal will not be permitted to participate in the graduationceremony. Rehearsal is scheduled for Friday, May 25, 2018, at CHS beginning promptly at 7:30 a.m. in the gym. After practicing in the gym, the seniors will board buses to Mentor Fine Arts Auditorium.

Transportation to practice is by school bus only. NO student will be permitted to drive to Mentor.

Because there is so much organizing to be done to make the ceremony a positive experience, we need to have the cooperation of all students involved.

All seniors will be transported by school bus.

Any recognized class activity will be planned, supervised and chaperoned by school staff. If questions arise regarding any activity, please do not hesitate to call Chardon High School.

Class Picnic

A senior class picnic will be held. (students must find their own transportation to and from the picnic.)

NOTE:

Seniors are reminded that it is necessary to pass the last nine weeks and/or the final exam plus have a passing average in a course to receive credit. Failure to meet these requirements in courses required for graduation will result in being ineligible for a diploma in May. Students will not be permitted to participate in the graduation ceremony. Further clarification is found on page 108/109 of the Student Handbook.

Graduation Exercises

Graduation exercises will be held at Mentor Fine Arts on Route 615 in Mentor on Saturday, May 26, at 2:00 p.m. This should eliminate weather concerns while providing an atmosphere conducive to the dignity commencement should have. Each seniorwill receive four tickets to be issued at commencement practice on Friday, May 25, 2018. We will have a very limited number of extra tickets. Extra tickets will be limited to fourper student. To reserve extra tickets, please call Mrs. Sprinzl at 285-4057 ext. 1262 or email at jen.sprinzl@chardonschools.org. Tickets are first come, first served.

Delinquent Obligations

Because all students are expected to meet their responsibilities and obligations as members of our school, seniors are reminded that all deficiencies and/or delinquent obligations (i.e. required credits, class work, fees, library fines, activity fees, textbooks, detentions, suspensions, etc.) are to be taken care of prior to the commencement practice. Students will not be permitted to participate in commencement unless all obligations have been met.

Transcripts/Scholarships

All seniors will fill out a Final Transcript Request form via Naviance.

The Audience

In order for any graduation program to be completely successful, the audience too must play a particular role in the proceedings

Dignity and decorum are the order of the day.

Disruptive or any other such loud behavior is considered inappropriate at a commencement ceremony.

As a courtesy to our graduates, parents, and guests, we ask parents of young children to make some arrangements for leaving these little ones at home.

Kids will be Kids

But...it is important for seniors to remember that, although they are finished with the coursework at Chardon High School, they are still members of the student body and, as such, must comply with all school rules and regulations. Failure to do so could result in disciplinary action, which would require suspension from the formal graduation exercises.

It is important to remember that commencement ceremonies are not only for the honored graduates, but also for mothers, fathers, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and others who attend and regard this ceremony as a serious and dignified occasion. Caps thrown into the air, unnecessary clapping, whistling, or any disruptive behavior only takes away from the dignity they expect. If for no other reason, consider...your Senior Awards Program and Commencement are two of the most important memories you will have. Please make them events of which you, your parents and your school will be extremely proud.

Guidelines for Proper Attire

- take pride in your appearance -

Because, in a formal ceremony, all participants are dressed in some type of specific regalia or uniform, proper attire is to be worn by all potential graduates during any of the graduation exercises. To be dressed properly, please note the following:

·Caps are always worn flat on top of the head, with the point of the cap centered in the middle of the forehead. Caps are never worn at the back of the head.

·Tassels are worn on the right side of the cap until such time as commencement honors are bestowed upon the graduates.

·Gowns should be approximately 10” from the floor (please hem if necessary).

·Gowns should be pressed before being worn to any of the graduation exercises.

·NHS Members who end the school year in good standing may wear Honor Chords displayed appropriately over their gowns.

After graduation ceremonies, caps and gowns are yours to keep as a memento of the occasion. Any student not participating in graduation ceremonies will receive a refund of cap and gown payment.

Students not dressed in proper attire will not be permitted to participate in the formal graduation ceremony on commencement day.

NOTE: Students will be permitted to wear only one tassel with their cap and gown during the formal ceremony. No flowers, signs, jewelry or other additions are permitted on cap and gown.

Pictures

As a courtesy to the graduates and special guests, we will ask members of the audience to take pictures from their seats only.

Baccalaureate

Baccalaureate services are by definition religious in nature. Designed by graduates, this ceremony is a non-denominational religious service at a local Chardon church. This voluntary activity will be held Friday, May 25, 2018, at 7:00 p.m. at the Chardon United Methodist Church, 515 North Street, Chardon, Ohio.

Prom

Prom is May 19, 6-11 PM, at the Croatian Hall in Eastlake.The theme is the Roarin' 20's and the junior class prom committee has been working hard the past five months planning every intricate detail!

In order to promote a healthy, safe, enjoyable evening for all students, the following procedures will be in place for the school dance. We encourage families to discuss these rules together.

EXPECTED STUDENT BEHAVIOR

Students will follow all applicable school rules as outlined in the CHS Student Handbook.

Students will show respect and be courteous towards all students, faculty, and chaperones.

The manner of dancing will be appropriate for a school function, and monitored strictly.

Any student or guest suspected of being under the influence of any controlled substance, or in possession of tobacco or any controlled substance, is subject to removal from the dance, emergency removal, and criminal prosecution.

CONSEQUENCES

Students violating the CHS Dance Code of Conduct will be given one verbal warning and their wristband will be removed by a faculty member. With their second warning, they will be asked to leave the dance. There will be norefunds given for students asked to leave before the end of the dance.

Removal from the dance may affect future school disciplinary action, and/or school dance privileges.

In my four years with these procedures in place--we have not had a single problem.

Prom Court Videos

Rob Hemly and Marissa Perrico

Drew Cressman and Sarah Eisenhart

Casey Fisher and Natasha Paros-Gaser

Natalie and John

Sydni and Connor

No video available, yet they wanted you to know that their video was the personalized love that they shared with each of their friends this year.

Broadcast: 2018 Chardon High School Prom Assembly

Date: Friday, May 18th at 9:30am

2018 Chardon High School Prom Assembly from Chardon High School's gymnasium

Underclass Exams

As we prepare for the many celebrations at the end of a school year, we wanted to share with you a quick reference guide to help assist you with the countless calendars that you manage. It is hard to believe that we are days away from exams, commencement, and the beginning of summer break.

The second semester ends on May 24th this year. In order to meet the curricular needs of the students, we had to be creative with the exam schedules. Many departments shared that maximizing the exam schedule for senior projects, exams, and presentations would minimize the disruptions to their target outcomes in their curriculum.

Providing the best opportunities for student success is at the core of why I serve in education. Over the last week, I have been discussing the underclass exam schedule with staff and students. Several months ago, the Scheduling Task Force created the bell schedule with the exam schedule in mind. Over the last few days, several concerns were identified that weren't initially noted by the committee. Therefore, as we transition into next week, the following underclass exam schedule will be administered.

Wednesday, May 23: Underclass Finals: Open Campus for students- Show up only for your exams Office Hours: Teachers will be in their rooms to assist students 2nd Period Exam: 9:20-11:00 AM 4th Period Exam: 11:05 AM-12:45 PM 6th Period Exam: 12:50-2:30 PM Make-up Exams: 11:40 AM -2:30 PM Chromebook Collection

Chromebook Collection

During the days ofMay 22-24th (Grades 9-11), students will need to turn-in their Chromebooks & Chargers in the Learning Center (Room 1). School Fees may be accessed according to the condition of your device or failure to return a charger. Any parent interested in assisting us in this important task may contact Douglas Higham, douglas.higham@chardonschools.org. We would appreciate any parent assistance just like last Spring and this past Fall.

The following times will be allotted:May 22-24, 2018 (8:30 AM - 12:00 PM) Underclassmen (9-11) Collection

The task includes:

Report to the Learning Center when your last exam is completed to return the Chromebooks.

Students clean with wipes provided, dry, power on/off the devices.

Staff will access the Chromebooks for damage, etc. and document any device in need of repair.

What Do Students Need To Know?

Bring in your Chromebook charged.

Enter from the front entrance and head to the Learning Center (Room 1).

At the 1st station, assistants will verify Chromebooks and the student will clean/ dry the device/ place chargers in ziplock

Parents will verify the Chromebook/ Assess the machine for damage/ and place it in the proper bin

If there are any fees, they will need to be paid prior to graduation practice.

Exit the doors on the northeast corner of the Media Center.

Leadership Summit

The deadline (May 25th, 2018) for enrolling in the 2019 London & Global Student Leadership Summit is rapidly approaching.

This 10-day journey takes your student-leader from the amazing streets of London to the mountains of Switzerland for a collaborative experience with international students and global leaders & thinkers. This is a unique opportunity for our CHS students! It has the potential to set your student apart from all others in the college and career application process, along with CHS and college credit available.

Announcements Crew Outtakes

Final Reflection

This is the last regular edition of the Week in Reflection. After an 18 hour day, I need to close this reflection with my heartfelt gratitude for your support this year. This job has no set hours. I am grateful for those that read the week from my perspective and will continue to find ways to communicate all of the great things that we accomlplish each day at CHS.

​If you choose to print the entire year, you will notice over 300 pages of my passion, love, and commitment to the students and staff at Chardon High School.​Enjoy the summer. Enjoy the simple things in life. Laugh a little, Live in the moment, and Be YOU. I will put together a Graduation Edition after Memorial Day.

Stay tuned for details coming from my office this Summer. Leadership doesn't take a day off. Blessings to you and yours.

Providing the best opportunities for student success is at the core of why I serve in education. Over the last three days, I have been discussing the underclass exam schedule with staff and students. Several months ago, the Scheduling Task Force created the bell schedule with the exam schedule in mind. Over the last few days, several concerns were identified that weren't initially noted by the committee. Therefore, as we transition into next week, the following underclass exam schedule will be administered. No changes have been made to this week's schedule for Senior Exams (most of their projects have been completed prior to the scheduled exam day).

Wednesday, May 23: Underclass Finals: Open Campus for students- Show up only for your exams Office Hours: Teachers will be in their rooms to assist students 2nd Period Exam: 9:20-11:00 AM 4th Period Exam: 11:05 AM-12:45 PM 6th Period Exam: 12:50-2:30 PM Make-up Exams: 11:40 AM -2:30 PM Chromebook Collection

Thank you, Chardon!

I am 40 years old. For nearly all of those years, I have lived in Chardon. Chardon is my home. It is where I rode my first bike, swung my first bat, read my first book, entered my first school, met my beautiful wife, and graduated from high school.

I have so many treasured memories from this beautiful town nestled in the hills of Geauga County.

I have been employed in this county throughout my entire professional career, and it is where I vow that I will write my final reflection someday long into the future.

Chardon is where my entire family calls home. It is where my parents, daughters call home and my in-laws call home. It is where we break bread, share our faith formation, and educate generations of Hilltoppers. I am proud to call Chardon my home.

So much has occurred this year within understanding school funding, restructuring and reconfiguring---and every person has worked way beyond their capacity to communicate, articulate, and collaborate with teachers, parents, students, and community members more of our story--while treasuring our history.

Tucked inside the structure of Chardon High School is an unwavering structure that holds our walls strong. This unwavering reality lives in the actions of the people that I am able to encounter each day.

Our values make us strong. We value our community both inside and outside of our school. We recognize our shared response to raising young leaders in a very complex world that we live in. We demonstrate humility by acknowledging the opportunities that we have; the strengths that we are building while refining our areas of refinement. Nearly 150 years (with commencements) ​of traditions, convictions, and achievements that have built upon the rich legacy of Hilltoppers that we honor. The respect that we model and expect helps guide every student in their preparation for adulthood. Our graduates seek ways to express dignity to all people that we encounter regardless of their background and we embrace the beauty of every individual's story. Most importantly, we nurture our family both in and out of the building and always seek ways to support each other.

Thank you for seeing the values that together we instill in your children and supporting our mission of preserving high achievement for all students where learning is our most important work.

Saying Yes means more than you can even imagine. Your Yes validates our commitment to not only live the mission of our school--it strengthens our vision to build upon the educational opportunities for our students and staff members in the present and the future!

A Message from Dr. Hanlon

PASSAGE OF ISSUE 3

We are extremely pleased with the level of support from our community on this important issue. As a result of the passage of Issue 3 combined with operating efficiencies resulting from the of the district, we will be able to hold our budget constant given reductions in state funding support. Our volunteers worked tirelessly to communicate this important message to the community. Approval of the levy will permit us to continue the programs and services that contribute to the exceptional educational experience that has become a tradition in the Chardon Schools.

On behalf of our Board of Education, I wish to extend appreciation to the Citizens for Chardon Schools and our supporters for their continued commitment to our school district. The leadership of our Citizens Committee kept an unfailing focus on communicating the need for this issue. We appreciate the continued support and confidence that the community places behind the school district - this important partnership is an integral component that helps our school district perform at a very high level. It is also what makes Chardon and exceptional places for families to call home.​

I continue to be humbled to have the opportunity to serve as Superintendent of a truly outstanding school district with a supportive community and outstanding staff members that make everything happen for our students. Thank you!

Congratulations

Chardon High School is proud to recognize the following students who will be leading their classmates across the stage at graduation. These students are recognzed by their classmates as living a life of high character and leadership; embodying the core values.

Congratulations to the following students who were voted upon by their peers to lead their classmates as officers for 2018-2019.

Prom Information

After Prom is in NEED of Help

Please consider joining the generations of parents that have served After Prom at Chardon High School.
​Sign up here

Parent Presentation: Bell Schedule

Throughout the course of this year, our bell schedule has created many opportunities for staff and students to expand upon the educational experiences at Chardon High School. Throughout this year, the Schedule Task Force met to refine the implementation of this schedule. As the year progressed, staff and students shared their feedback regarding the schedule. The feedback was extremely positive and poignant aligning to the purpose of the outcomes of this original committee.

As the Reconfiguration process commenced this year, the team came back together to once again look at the schedule to meet the essential needs of adding a grade level. The building administration and school counselors built over twenty-six schedules based upon the principles set forth by the task force and the feedback that we received throughout the year.

After careful consideration for consistency and to maximize upon the time in which we are given, the task force recommended the following schedule to the staff and board of education. This schedule aligns closely with the times that our students are used to while maintaining the integrity of Topper Time, and additional lunch period, and scheduling the Circuit of Success.

Enclosed are some highlights of the schedule:

Similar to current hybrid bell schedule implemented in 17-18

Added four-minute passing times

Four lunch sessions with eighth graders having their own lunchtime

Implementation of Circuit of Success for eighth graders

A potential eighth period for students; regular school day is periods 1-7 for grades 8-12. A few classes or staff supervision may occur during period 8.

Enclosed is the presentation from last Monday.

Senior Events

Over the last several weeks, I have been sharing the enclosed information to best prepare you and your families with the end of year events. Please take the time to click on the links to verify your understanding of the end of the year.

When you check your student's grades in Infinite Campus also check their School Fees.Statements will not be sent to grade 9 or 10. It is your responsibility to monitor your student's fees.All Spring Sports adjustments have been made and the process of recording payments that have come in previous to the fee was posted in Infinite Campus takes a while.

You may see a surplus recorded for your student. This can be from a class fee or workbook fee canceled, changed or an adjustment for 2nd or 3rd sport has been made.

Chromebook Collection

CHARDON HIGH SCHOOLChromebook Collection 2018It is hard to believe that we are closing out the 2017-18 school year. We have many things to be grateful for and accomplishments to celebrate this school year.During the days ofMay 15-17th(Seniors)&May 22-24th (Grades 9-11), students will need to turn-in theirChromebooks & Chargersin the Learning Center (Room 1). School Fees may be accessed according to the condition of your device or failure to return a charger. Any parent interested in assisting us in this important task may contact Douglas Higham,douglas.higham@chardonschools.org. We would appreciate any parent assistance just like last Spring and this past Fall.The following times will be allotted:May 15-17, 2018(8:30 AM - 12:00 PM)SeniorsChromebook CollectionMay 22-24, 2018(8:30 AM - 12:00 PM) Underclassmen (9-11) CollectionThe task includes:

Report to the Learning Centerwhen your last examis completed to return the Chromebooks.

Students clean with wipes provided, dry, power on/off the devices.

Staff will access the Chromebooks for damage, etc. and document any device in need of repair.

What Do Students Need To Know?

Bring in your Chromebook charged.

Enter from the front entrance and head to the Learning Center (Room 1).

At the 1st station, assistants will verify Chromebooks and the student will clean/ dry the device/ place chargers in ziplock

Parents will verify the Chromebook/ Assess the machine for damage/ and place it in the proper bin

If there are any fees, they will need to be paid prior to graduation practice.

Exit the doors on the northeast corner of the Media Center.

Choir and Drama Updates

Free Harmony, Chardon's Show Choir was busy with 10 community shows in the last 2 weeks. The group presented a set of "Classic Rock" Tunes from the rock artists Queen, Hall & Oats, Steve Miller Band, Van Halen, Chicago, and Toto. We performed for elementary and middle school students. On Friday, May 4th, was the annual Free Harmony & Jazz Band Dinner Show held at Quail Hollow Resort. The ensembles performed for over 200 friends and family members that joined us for a fun night of music making and dinner.

Free Harmony auditions will be held on Monday, May 14th from 2:45-5:00 in the CHS Choir Room. Students should bring a verse and refrain or approximately 20 measures to sing for the audition. Participants will represent the choir department with their participation in Free Harmony throughout the 2018-2019 school year.

On Monday, May 9th, the Geauga County Ovations Awards were presented at GLTG in Chardon. This program honors the work of Geauga County high school's for their accomplishments pertaining to their musical theatre productions. Chardon put on an outstanding production of "Evita". Connor Prusha received an award for outstanding vocals. Kirstin Henry received an award for her amazing acting in the production. The Props Crew was awarded with the Tech Award for their notable contributions on the production and the Evita Chorus was awarded a "Show Stopper" award for the performance of the song "The Money Kept Rolling In". Amanda Bryant received the MVP awards for the Chardon production for serving as an excellent Dance Captain for the production. Congratulations to the Cast and Crew of Evita on a memorable and outstanding production.

On Tuesday, May 8th, Ashland University Concert Choir visited the CHS Choirs for a performance. It was wonderful to hear and interact with this university choir as they were on their tour headed to Toronto, Canada. The CHS Choirs shared their pieces "We Belong" and "100 Years"

On Wednesday, May 9th, the CHS Choirs presented their spring pops concert featuring all "Classic Rock". Free Harmony Women's Choir, CHS Chorale and Chamber Choirs all contributed to the rocking evening. Congratulations to the CHS Choirs for an outstanding program!

If you know of any singers that aren't currently in choir, please have them reach out to Mr. Streiff, in preparation for the 2018-2019 school year.

​We are certainly blessed with the vision of Mr. Streiff!

Art Show

The 2018 Student Art Show will be on display for ONE MORE WEEK ONLY!

Our high school art students have been working hard to make sure it's the most unique and exciting show yet. Come to Heinen's and check it out! Don't forget to vote for the student with the most compelling work

The Global Leadership Summit

Journey to London, England & Davos, Switzerland for an experience of a lifetime! This is a chance for our Chardon Student Leaders (that means YOU!) to tour London and work with students from around the world to discuss a Global Issue - ¨The Power of Communication¨ in Davos, Switzerland. There is CHS & College credit available for this exciting adventure.

For High School seniors interested in learning more about emplyoment opportunities with some extraordinary business partners--this is a must attend event!

The Learning Center Newsletter: Last Edition for this year

Shining Star CLE

Happy Mother's Day

Love you, mom!

After everything you've done for me — the opportunities you've handed me, the countless mood swings you've endured from me, the life you've given up for me — I'm supposed to send you a card with flowers, and that's supposed to be enough?

Flowers, cards and massage gift certificates do not get my point across. Taking you out to dinner won't do it justice. Buying you balloons isn't going to inflate my point. All of it seems so… trite.

A Hallmark card won't ever be able to explain exactly why I love you.
​
Exactly why I'm proud to call you my mom. Exactly how grateful I am for you.
Instead, I'll just tell you.

I'll tell you exactly why I respect you, not try and fit it into some two-by-two-inch card.

I will tell you exactly what I should say every day of every month of every year. I'll tell you exactly why I love you.

Your contagious laugh

How you would always read to me every night

Your welcoming smile and how you make me smile

The kindness you show everyone even if they don’t deserve it

The sacrifices you’ve made so you could give me everything

Because you taught me to be a better person

How I know you’ll always be there for me no matter what

How you lead by example and inspire me to be so much

How you go out of your way to help others

Your passion for life; even if you have a rough day you keep going

Whenever I need a hand, you’re always will to lend me yours

Your delicious cooking

How you do so very much, but never ask for anything in return

You’re always there to cheer me on and give me encouragement when it’s needed most

Your warm loving hugs

You taught me that it’s okay to laugh at yourself and make mistakes

Because you gave me life and brought me into this world

Most of all… I love you for who you are and who you’ve helped me become… you’re my role model, my mother and my friend

Community Event

The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) has launched the NIX Opiates Campaign to fight teen opioid abuse in Ohio by bringing emergency physicians into Ohio schools to speak candidly with students and parents about addiction, drug abuse and overdose.​Dr. John Queen, Chardon resident and Cleveland Clinic Emergency Room physician, presented to students, parents and community members at Chardon Middle School last evening. His message is absolutely essential for everyone to hear. Dr. Queen's message cemented in my heart that the time is NOW to talk about addiction and prevention. I have invited Dr. Queen to come back to Chardon High School this Fall to speak to our students and provided the opportunity for him to come into our Chemistry classes. I believe that this model (along with preventative programs) will continue to educate our students and staff about the importance of knowing the signs, science, and preventive measures to slow this trend in our county, state, and nation. Please take the time to watch his message . Special thanks to our ASAP, AC4P, and Core Value team--along with Mrs. Blackburn, Mrs. Bertaud, and Mr. Herner for their support and guidance. As always, the best in the land, Mr. Jevnikar and his G-TV team that streamed this video live.

Safe Driver's Week

Safe Driving Week at Chardon High School this past week was a success. All of the juniors received a presentation from Officer Shaw about the dangers of distracted driving, the importance of seat belt use, and the immense responsibility that they have when behind the wheel.

On Tuesday morning, Officer Shaw was in the student parking lot to greet the students as they drove in. Each student, driver or passenger, that was wearing their seatbelt received a coupon for a free Wendy's Frosty as well as a raffle ticket for a chance to win one of the numerous other prizes. We had nearly 98% seat belt use rate that morning by our students. Around 50 students won an additional prize from the raffle drawing. Prizes were provided by Dunkin Donuts, Bean's Coffee Shop & Bistro, Sheetz, and Dairy Queen.

On Wednesday morning, Officer Shaw watched as students arrived at school along Maple Ave. He was checking to see if anyone driving a vehicle was using their cell phone. In Ohio, it is illegal for anyone under 18 to use a wireless device in any manner while operating a motor vehicle, including phone calls, even if using bluetooth connectivity. We are happy to report that not one student was observed using their cell phone on Wednesday morning.

Sharon and Rick Baker of Kelli's CRUSADE spoke with some of our classes on Tuesday about the importance of educating teen drivers and joined out lunch periods in the cafeteria to share their information. They also allowed students to sign up for the chance to be awarded a free course in winter driving skills, which will be held next school year.

The Bureau of Motor Vehicles was in our cafeteria on Thursday. They were available to answer questions that the students may have about driver's license law. They also brought along educational material as well as temporary permit testing study guides and information.

Our very own Geauga County Safe Communities Coalition also joined us in the cafeteria during lunch periods on Thursday. They brought along "drunk goggles" and other materials to educate our students on the dangers of impaired and distracted driving. They even had a prize wheel for the students to "spin and win".

Ravenwood: Free Screening TODAY

In response to our community event, Inside My Head: The Pressure on Teenagers hosted last month at CHS, many parents inquired about ways that they can reach out to their teenagers.

Friday, May 4th Ravenwood Health is offering a free, confidential mental health screening for any interested Chardon High School student at Chardon High School. Signing up is easy using one of the following ways:

Stop by the Library Conference Center on May 4th and schedule a time. Ravenwood counselors will be on site at 8:00 a.m.

Notify your guidance counselor or Mrs. Blackburn and we will help you get scheduled.

Please bring the signed permission form with you. If you forget the form, please see Mrs. Blackburn. Parental permission is required for students under the age of 18.

Science Olympiad

​Congratulations to the members of the Chardon Science Olympiad teams. They participated in the annual Ohio Science Olympiad State Competition, held at The Ohio State University on April 28, 2018. We are pleased to share the news that Chardon’s Division B team, representing grades 6-9, won the sixth place trophy. The Division C team, representing grades 9-12, placed 13th.​Competition in Ohio is tough. Over 4900 students from 331 teams representing school districts throughout Ohio competed in Regional tournaments to qualify for spots at the State Tournament. Chardon students were among the over 1600 students who traveled to the Ohio State University campus for the state finals.

Thank you for your continuing support of Chardon Science Olympiad. (Photos)

There is NO Hiding our core values

By Kristi Garabrandt, The News-Herald

Please read this amazing article written by Kristi Garabrandt of The News-Herald who took the time to spend her day with our students and staff members. I am so proud of the work of our students and teachers who recognize the good in all of our students---and express the essential values that they have as members of our school community modeling our core values!

The 40 students from the high school’s Guided Study Program, the Chardon Academy and the freshman baseball team, accompanied by teachers Sharon Zdesar, Christy Tyminski and Dan Dinko, also a coach, worked at getting Santa’s Hide-A-Way Hollow ready for the summer Christmas season. They pulled down an old wood post and wire fence around the property and laid out the pieces of vinyl that will be a new fence, even after the rain started.

Santa’s Hide-A-Way Hollow, located in Middlefield, is a nonprofit organization that provides a final Christmas for terminally ill children and their families.

“I think it’s fantastic (the students helping). We are getting ready for a very busy Christmas summer. We open this up to give families of children who are critically ill the chance to celebrate Christmas one last time as a family. Their child may pass before Christmas, so this gives them a chance to have memories and good thoughts of what was,” said the owner of Santa’s Hide-A-Way Hollow, who refers to himself as Santa Claus.

“(The students) are helping us get ready. We are coming out of the winter doldrums. Branches are down, grass needs to be cut, everything is sloppy,” the property owner said.

He also credited the students with doing a tremendous job, despite the cold and the rain, and said that he appreciated all the work they have done.

Dinko said he picked this location for the community service project after reading about it on the internet.

Dinko told about the first time he was there with students from the football team two years ago and they had been working on painting and staining fences, digging and raking.

He recalled the students spent most of the day working and not really understanding what the place was about until toward the end of the day when they were about done.

The students complained about ruined clothes and shoes, but once it was explained to them the purpose behind of the Hide-A-Way and who it served, it pretty much changed everything with the students, he said.

Dinko told the students before they began working to think for a second and be grateful for what they have.

“Maybe they are not the best students at times and maybe there are things going on in their life, but it can’t be anything close to what young kids that are terminally ill have to experience, and as a parent, I can’t even imagine having to go through something like that as well, so that is why we chose the place,” Dinko said.

Joey Cloonan, a 10th-grader, said he thought it was fun and better than school.

Ninth-grader Bobby Kosie said he enjoyed helping out and that the Santa seemed like a really nice guy.

“I think that it’s a good thing for people to do to boost their morale,” Bobby said.

“I find it nice to have the community and local schools to come out and help with this,” said Deleyney DiFranco, a ninth-grader. “It kind of helps get kids to do nicer things if they are, like, not in the best spot.”

According to Dinko, the last thing he told students as they got off the bus afterward was, “What they did today was more important than any online class, any assignment or test they had to complete and any baseball game they would play in.”

Photos courtesy of Sharon Zdesar

Senior Information

Each year, I share this information with students, and parents to help families prepare for this extraordinary time of the year.

When you check your student's grades in Infinite Campus also check their School Fees.Statements will not be sent to grade 9 or 10. It is your responsibility to monitor your student's fees.All Spring Sports adjustments have been made and the process of recording payments that have come in previous to the fee was posted in Infinite Campus takes a while.

You may see a surplus recorded for your student. This can be from a class fee or workbook fee canceled, changed or an adjustment for 2nd or 3rd sport has been made.

Journey to London, England & Davos, Switzerland for an experience of a lifetime! This is a chance for our Chardon Student Leaders (that means YOU!) to tour London and work with students from around the world to discuss a Global Issue - ¨The Power of Communication¨ in Davos, Switzerland. There is CHS & College credit available for this exciting adventure.

2019 Spain, France, Italy

2019 Spain, France, Italy trip meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 9 in CHS media center at 7:00p.m

2018-2019: CHS Bell Schedule

Throughout the course of this year, our bell schedule has created many opportunities for staff and students to expand upon the educational experiences at Chardon High School. Throughout this year, the Schedule Task Force met to refine the implementation of this schedule. As the year progressed, staff and students shared their feedback regarding the schedule. The feedback was extremely positive and poignant aligning to the purpose of the outcomes of this original committee.

As the Reconfiguration process commenced this year, the team came back together to once again look at the schedule to meet the essential needs of adding a grade level. The building administration and school counselors built over twenty-six schedules based upon the principles set forth by the task force and the feedback that we received throughout the year.

After careful consideration for consistency and to maximize upon the time in which we are given, the task force recommended the following schedule to the staff and board of education. This schedule aligns closely with the times that our students are used to while maintaining the integrity of Topper Time, and additional lunch period, and scheduling the Circuit of Success.

Enclosed are some highlights of the schedule:

Similar to current hybrid bell schedule implemented in 17-18

Added four-minute passing times

Four lunch sessions with eighth graders having their own lunchtime

Implementation of Circuit of Success for eighth graders

A potential eighth period for students; regular school day is periods 1-7 for grades 8-12. A few classes or staff supervision may occur during period 8.

If you would like to learn more about the schedule, and ways in which we will implement programs during the 18-19 school year--please attend the parent meeting scheduled on May 7th at 6:30 pm in the gym.